Langman to re-join Sunshine Coast Lightning

The club made the announcement at their Sippy Downs home at USC Stadium on Monday.

It comes after the Netball New Zealand board granted Langman a 12-month exemption under the Silver Ferns Selection policy.

Langman said she was thrilled to be returning to the Lightning, which she helped establish in its maiden season.

"Sunshine Coast Lightning holds a special place in my heart and I'm eager to take to the court once again with such an incredible group of players,” she said.

"It was a difficult decision to step away from the Suncorp Super Netball league last year and I'm excited to be re-joining the fold.

"Lightning's club culture resonates strongly with me and I've made no secret of my high regard for Noeline Taurua's coaching style.

"I feel incredibly privileged to be afforded the opportunity to play under her leadership at Lightning and as part of the Silver Ferns.

"I'm also very grateful to have been granted the exemption by Netball New Zealand and can't wait to kick off the 2019 season on the Sunshine Coast.”

A veteran of 141 consecutive test matches, Langman represented New Zealand at an international level from 2005-2016 but was ineligible for selection in 2017 while playing in Australia. She was recently named in the 2018/19 Silver Ferns squad.

Lightning CEO Danielle Smith said she was delighted to welcome Langman back to the Club.

"Laura formed an integral part of our leadership group in 2017 and contributed significantly to Lightning's success both on and off the court during her time here,” Smith said.

"She is an asset to our team, bringing a wealth of netball knowledge and experience to the playing group.

"Laura's humble nature, dedication and skill have ensured she has earned the respect and admiration of her peers as well as Lightning fans.”

Langman was the third athlete signed by Sunshine Coast Lightning in its premiership-winning debut season. She joins Steph Wood, Karla Pretorius, Laura Scherian, Madeline McAuliffe and Cara Koenen in the 2019 team line-up.

Lightning expects to announce the remainder of its 10-strong squad in the coming week.